California Senate Passes Bill to Extend Eviction Notice Period for Renters
California lawmakers are moving forward with a major tenant protection initiative designed to reduce evictions linked to nonpayment of rent. Senate Bill 436, also known as the Keeping Californians Housed Act, passed the state Senate and is now under review in the Assembly.
Introduced by State Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley), SB 436 proposes to extend the mandatory eviction notice period from three days to 14 days for tenants who fall behind on rent. Supporters of the bill say this extension would give renters much-needed time to apply for emergency assistance, borrow money, or seek legal help—efforts that could prevent avoidable evictions.
Protecting Vulnerable Californians
“This bill is a win-win for tenants and landlords,” said Senator Wahab, emphasizing that the legislation aims to improve housing stability for seniors, single parents, and people with disabilities.
The proposed change comes amid growing concerns about housing insecurity and the affordability crisis across the state. Tenant advocacy groups—including the Los Angeles Right to Counsel Coalition, Public Advocates, Tenants Together, and the Western Center on Law and Poverty—have voiced strong support for the measure.
Advocates Push for Reform
Shane Henson, a representative of the Los Angeles Renters’ Right to Counsel Coalition, said the extended notice period is vital. “Tenants need time to get back on their feet,” he said. “Three days just isn’t enough when people are living paycheck to paycheck.”
Legal advocates also point to the outdated nature of California’s current eviction law. Suzanne Dershowitz, Senior Staff Attorney at Public Advocates, noted that eviction statutes have remained largely unchanged since 1863. “Landlords often have months to resolve mortgage issues,” she said. “But tenants are only given three days to fix a rent issue—that’s an imbalance we must fix.”
A Growing Crisis for Renters
California’s rental landscape underscores the urgency. Nearly 45% of households in the state are renters, and in many areas, rent costs have climbed far faster than wages. According to Shanti Singh, Legislative & Communications Director at Tenants Together, “SB 436 is urgently needed, especially as federal safety net programs face threats and economic uncertainty continues.”
Aligning with Other States
If enacted, the legislation would bring California in line with more than two dozen other states—including New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington—that already require longer notice periods before eviction proceedings can begin.
Supporters argue that this measure will not only protect vulnerable renters but also reduce legal costs and turnover disruptions for landlords. As the bill advances through the Assembly, housing advocates remain hopeful that California will soon adopt this modern, balanced approach to eviction prevention.